Vale District Council's "extremely disappointed" with unitary council decision

A statement from Aylesbury Vale District Council read: "While we are extremely disappointed, the “minded to” decision is not set in stone, and as the process allows, we will be making the strongest possible representations to the Secretary of State that this decision is not the right one.

"We don’t believe that this decision is in the best interest of our local residents, businesses, community groups, parish councils and various other stakeholders across the county and, based on our own engagement, we don’t believe it has strong local support.

"Our two new unitary proposal, which can be seen at www.modernisingbucks.org recognises key areas of difference for the communities in the north and the south, such as the economy, jobs, growth and housing markets.

"We believe a single large unitary will mean major opportunities will be missed in these areas and that a one size fits all model will not mean the best deal. We also question the savings the single unitary model claims to deliver.

There is now a period until 25 May 2018 during which those interested may make further representations to the Secretary of State and give their opinions. Representations can be made by emailing [email protected]

The final decision will be subject to Parliamentary approval.